Mixed reception for Villa as Riquelme defends his return to Boca Juniors

Sebastián Villa's return to Boca Juniors was met with a mixed reception from fans at La Bombonera, with more boos than applause during his first official match back Source: infobae. The Colombian forward, who previously spent five years at the club scoring 29 goals and winning seven titles, rejoined from Independiente Rivadavia for $6.5 million amid controversy over his past legal issues.

Fan reaction

During the pre-match lineup announcement, the crowd gave a thunderous ovation to Leandro Paredes, while Villa received a mix of boos, applause, and indifference Source: infobae. Villa’s performance will likely influence future fan sentiment; his first cross drew some vocal support Source: infobae.

Riquelme's defense

President Juan Román Riquelme defended the signing, stating that "everyone deserves a second opportunity" Source: lavozar and that Villa "fulfilled his sentence" Source: clarin. He explained that the move was requested by coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena, who wanted a forward. Riquelme also clarified that Villa never demanded money from Boca, contrary to speculation, and noted that the club was clear with Villa that he would stop playing if convicted Source: clarin.

Key points

• Villa was sentenced to two years and one month of suspended prison for gender violence in 2023, and acquitted of sexual abuse in 2025 Source: clarin.